Page 62 of Just Say Yes
‘I mean, he’s totally invested in all senses of the word. You know Lorcan owns this place, right?’
21
The biscuit, apparently as much in shock as I was, decided to take a wrong turn at this point and tried to enter my lungs. I coughed, snorted, gasped for breath and finally found some air after Calum, despite being small and lean, gave me a surprisingly hefty ‘pat’ on the back, which helped reroute things.
‘From your reaction, I take it you didn’t know that.’
‘He owns the castle?’
‘Yep. I know he doesn’t say too much about it generally, but I thought, as it was all business between you two, he might have mentioned it.’
‘No. He didn’t. Earlier he said that it was going to rack and ruin and that investors helped restore it and make it what it is now.’
‘He’s right. There were investors but he’s gradually bought them out over the last ten years or so. Some of them had ideas as to how the castle should be run.’ He pulled a face.
‘Ideas that you didn’t agree with?’
‘Well, if you want a totally tasteless version of Ireland, complete with the serving staff dressing as leprechauns…’
‘Oh, God! That sounds awful!’
‘I know. Direct flight to Tacky Central!’
‘Dreadful.’
‘So, Lorcan was the main shareholder, thankfully, and managed to charm them into waiting a while before we changed the way we were running things. Bearing in mind we were fully booked for months ahead and had rave reviews, things were clearly going well. It bought him time to find the money to buy them out.’
‘I’m glad it worked out. What you’re doing here is great. I wonder why he didn’t mention that it washiscastle.’
‘I don’t know. He can be pretty private outside the village – you don’t really have that choice as part of it. Everyone knows your business whether you want them to or not. But we’ve definitely had extra attention in him from a few visitors when they find out he owns the place.’
‘Oh-h-h, I see. Well, you and he can both rest assured I’m definitely not interested in him because he owns a castle.’
Calum raised a brow, delight washing across his face.
‘That is, I’m definitely not interested in him at all! The fact that he owns a castle is neither here nor there.’
‘No, I can see that,’ he replied, looking genuinely disappointed. ‘Shame. You look good together.’
‘Oh, we do not,’ I said, laughing now, feeling my initial blush dissipating. ‘Anyway, that does explain his inside knowledge. I’ll continue dealing directly with you, though, if that’s all right?’
‘Absolutely. I think we’ve got most of it covered but we’ll definitely keep in touch and make sure everything is going exactly as planned. If you want to send me over the details of who is to be accommodated in the rooms here, I can get that all confirmed.’
‘Do you have a list of other recommended places people can stay? Obviously, there’s not a lot in the village, other than the pub. And perhaps a more regular taxi service that could be booked?’
‘Sure I can. The next biggest town is about half an hour’s drive and has a couple of hotels and a taxi firm. I’ll send you all the details this evening.’
‘Tomorrow is fine. I’ve put you out enough today. Thanks for seeing me on a Sunday.’
‘Honestly, it was my pleasure. Lorcan said he’d do it if I had plans, but I really do love my job and I’m so glad I came in to meet you. Not least to see my boss sweeping you up into his arms.’ He laid a hand on his chest and fluttered his eyelashes.
‘Oh, shush. This stupid leg is already getting on my nerves. I’m hoping I’ll be back to normal in a few days. I have things to do.’
‘Don’t overdo it. Work can wait. Your health is the most important thing.’
‘I have brides who would disagree with that, but yes, I know. I will try.’
‘Well, Lorcan will be back over in England so he’ll be keeping an eye on you, I’m sure.’ He gave another teasing waggle of his brows.
